Chapter 3: Graphing Behavior and Measuring Change

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts, terms, and definitions from the lecture on graphing behavior and measuring change.

Indirect Assessment

A behavioral assessment method that gathers information from the person exhibiting the behavior or others via interviews, questionnaires, rating scales, video, and product measures; relies on recall and does not record during the behavior.

Direct Assessment

Observation and recording of the target behavior as it occurs; requires a precise definition, separation from other behaviors, and accurate recording of the occurrences.

Target Behavior

The observable and measurable behavior that is the focus of assessment, described with active verbs and defined so multiple observers can agree; avoid biased labels.

Observing and Recording Behavior

The process of planning who will record, when and where, choosing recording methods and instruments, and considering recording reactivity and interobserver agreement.

Reactivity

The change in behavior that can occur due to the act of observing or recording it.

Interobserver Agreement (IOA)

The degree to which two or more observers record the same occurrence of the target behavior.

Direct Assessment Examples

Observing and recording the target behavior as it happens, such as a psychologist noting each social interaction on the playground.

Indirect Assessment Examples

Gathering information via interviews, teacher reports, rating scales, questionnaires, video, or product measures about the target behavior.

Overt Behavior

Behavior that is observable and can be seen by an observer.

Covert Behavior

Internal thoughts or private events that are not directly observable.

Recording Methods

Dimensions used to record behavior, including duration, frequency, latency, and intensity.

Duration

The length of time the behavior lasts from start to end.

Frequency

How many times the behavior occurs in a given period.

Latency

The time from a stimulus to the onset of the behavior.

Intensity

The physical effort or energy involved in emitting the behavior.

Recording Instrument

Tools used to collect data, such as data sheets, stopwatches, tally counters, smartphones, or laptops.

Data Sheet

A form used to record observations on paper or electronically.

Target Behavior Definition

The process of describing what the person does and says with clear, observable language using active verbs to ensure agreement between observers.

Active Verbs

Verbs that describe observable actions (e.g., runs, speaks) rather than internal states.

Biased Labels

Labels that imply internal states or judgments; should be avoided in defining the target behavior.

Recording Logistics

Identify who records, when, and where the observation takes place.

What to Record

Decide the specific events or dimensions (e.g., duration, frequency) to log.

Where to Record

Identify the setting or location of observation (e.g., playground, classroom).

Product Measures

Indirect assessment measures based on outcomes or products of behavior rather than on immediate observations.

Purpose of Behavioral Assessment

To determine where you are (whether treatment is needed), identify the best form of treatment, and determine if the treatment is working.